Vintage Omega Seamaster De Ville, unique dial

[CdnWatchDoc]

This is an interesting vintage Omega with what was likely a special-order dial or a Norman Morris special, as I have not seen another like it. As many of you know, the “De Ville” was introduced by Omega in approximately 1963 on upper end or dress Seamaster watches, often solid gold cased. However, a dedicated line was only brought to market by Omega in 1967. A wide assortment of dials were available (see: https://omegaforums.net/threads/omega-seamaster-a-guide-to-special-dials.151225/page-15 ), including “technical dials” from the late 1960s and early 1970s. This racing dial is very similar to others seen on Seamasters and Speedmasters of the era. I can’t give much detail on the model number or movement, as I haven’t opened the case nor had it serviced while in my possession.

Manufacturer: Omega
Model: Seamaster De Ville, model 165.020 or 165.65020 (?UK delivery-I purchased it from one of our UK based members )
Case: 34.5 mm diameter, steel, intact Seamaster logo on back, "waterproof" still visible
Movement: Automatic, likely Calibre 552 as per sources
Lugs: 18 mm
Dial: Yellow with cross hairs and applied logo, racing markings, original lumed gold stick hands, center seconds hand may have mild tarnish
Crown: signed, likely original
Crystal: Acrylic / hesalite typical of this period, center Omega logo
Strap: Honey brown RIOS leather strap with steel buckle provided
Service: History unknown, winds easily, and keeps good time, but would recommend service if used regularly
No box nor papers with this one

Priced at $1300 USD or $1650 CDN due to its rarity and unique dial.
Shipping outside of North America additional at cost. No trades at this time.
I accept PayPal F&F or e-transfer if within Canada, no returns unless not as per ad.

 

[CdnWatchDoc]

I have received a couple of comments regarding the dial of this watch. It may have been redialed sometime during its life, or it may have been a product of Norman Morris, who we know as the exclusive American distributor of Omega products in the 1960s. He created a wide range of dials for the market, and may have had this one made for someone on request. The racing pattern is very similar to other Omega dials of the era, although I agree that the font may be a bit on the thick side. I unfortunately do not have any other provenance.